The Crafoord Prize in astronomy and mathematics, biosciences, geosciences or polyarthritis research is awarded by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences annually according to a rotating scheme. The prize sum of SEK 6 million makes the Crafoord one of the world´s largest scientific prizes.

Anna-Greta and Holger Crafoord´s Fund was established in 1980 and the first prize was awarded in 1982. The prize is intended to promote international basic research in the disciplines:

Astronomy and Mathematics,

Geosciences,

Biosciences, with particular emphasis on ecology and

Polyarthritis (rheumatoid arthritis).

These disciplines are chosen so as to complement those for which the Nobel Prizes are awarded. The recipients are worthy scientists who receive the prize in accordance with a set scheme:

Year 1 Astronomy and Mathematics

Year 2 Geosciences

Year 3 Biosciences

Year 4 Astronomy and Mathematics

Starting in 2012, there will be two separate prizes in astronomy and mathematics awarded at the same time, each with a prize sum of SEK 4 million.

The prize in polyarthritis is awarded only when a special committee has shown that scientific progress in this field has been such that an award is justified.

The laureates are announced in mid-January each year, and the prize is presented in April/May on “Crafoord Day". It is received from the hand of His Majesty the King of Sweden. In connection with the Crafoord Day, a symposium in the discipline in question is arranged by the Royal Swedish Academy of Sciences. Read more about this at the menu “Events".